Each year on June 20, the United Nations and countless civic groups around the world celebrate World Refugee Day. Currently, there are more than 15.5 million refugees around the world. The United Nations established World Refugee Day to honor the courage, strength, and determination of these women, men, and children who are forced to flee their homes under the threat of persecution, conflict, and violence.
While turning our thoughts to refugees globally, it is also critical that we focus locally in our own communities. Each year, nearly six hundred refugees are resettled in Grand Rapids. With the help of neighbors, friends, and volunteers, these refugees are able to become self-sufficient residents of West Michigan and find hope after so much despair.
On the Sunday following World Refugee Day, June 23, 2013, Bethany Christian Services will host a walkathon and celebratory event, “Refugee Walk.” The event will be a time to join together to raise awareness, share cultural traditions, and celebrate the accomplishments of refugees in our community. All funds raised during this event will go to support Bethany's refugee resettlement programs and its refugee clients. Following the walk there will be a time for food, entertainment, a craft fair, and children’s activities.
There is no registration fee, but each individual is asked to raise at least $100. Registration may be done in teams (up to ten people) or individually. Register online before June 1 to receive a $10 gift certificate to Striders, a local athletic store.
This is a great opportunity to reflect on what it means to love your neighbor, take action to create a welcoming community, and engage in meaningful cross-cultural interactions. With every step we can work to engage, connect, and empower West Michigan’s refugee community!
Source: Emily Granger, Bethany Christian Services
